Saudi Arabia has officially allowed the opening of shops during prayer times, in a decision that falls within the framework of the policy of reforms and openness that have been continuously implemented in the Kingdom for years, and further limits the influence of the religious police.

The Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce wrote on Friday evening in a circular posted on Twitter, “We hope that you will continue to open shops and engage in commercial activities throughout working hours and during times [of prayer]."

The federation indicated that the bold decision comes within the framework of precautionary measures to prevent the coronavirus and preserve the health of shoppers, explaining that it was taken "to avoid the manifestations of crowding, gathering and long waiting during the closing times of prayers."

In the past, shops closed their doors during prayer times automatically, despite the absence of a legal provision. 

Members of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (religious police) pursued patrons of cafes and commercial centers and forced shops to close during prayer time.

Twitter users expressed their happiness at the decision, considering that the measure will increase working hours by an additional two hours per day.

Members of the Saudi Shura Council had said that the decision to close shops during prayer times costs the Saudi economy billions of riyals annually.

In 2019, Saudi Arabia announced that commercial activities would be allowed to operate for 24 hours in return for payment of a monetary allowance to the authorities, without clarifying whether this included prayer times. This decision caused confusion, as some rushed to work during prayer times, while others preferred to be careful until a clear official decision was issued.

Since then, shops and restaurants, especially in the capital, Riyadh, have been serving their customers during prayer times.

Since assuming the throne in 2017, Prince Mohammed bin Salman has implemented a series of economic and social reforms in the oil-dependent country that applies strict religious rules. Among the steps that have been taken are allowing women to drive and reopening cinemas.

However, he faces significant criticism from international human rights organizations condemning the launch of a massive crackdown on his opponents, including the imprisonment of women human rights defenders.

The decision to open shops coincides with the start of the Hajj rituals on Saturday in the holy city of Mecca.